There are several steps which you should take to ensure that your property is primed and ready for the summer season. Read on to find out what these steps are.

Invest in an awning for the garden

If you and your family like to spend time in the garden during the summer months, it's worth purchasing an awning for your patio and garden space.

The shade provided by an awning will protect you from the heat and the glare of direct sunlight. This, in turn, will allow you to sit and relax outdoors without running the risk of getting overheated or sunburnt or having to endure the bright glare of the direct sun.

Awnings come in dozens of different colours, sizes and styles; as such, it should be easy to find one which blends in well with your house's exterior. If you intend to install a permanent awning, it is important to select a design which keeps with your house's current aesthetic. A style that clashes with your home's appearance could affect the property's value  negatively, but a fashionable awning will increase it.

If you don't plan to use the awning throughout the entire year, it might be best to purchase a retractable one that can be neatly folded away when you don't need it.

Clean your air conditioning system

If you want your home to feel cool and comfortable throughout the course of the summer, you should give your air conditioning system some TLC before the season arrives.

Firstly, check the air filter; if it looks dirty, clean it (if it's a washable filter) or replace it. This is a very important step which you should not skip; if you use your air conditioning when its filter is clogged up with pet dander, dust, pollen and other debris, it could have a negative impact on the air quality in your home and could also reduce the effectiveness of the system itself.

After cleaning or replacing the air filter, use a screwdriver to unscrew the system's exterior casing. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe down the condenser coils (these coils can end up covered in thick layers of grime, which can affect their ability to deliver cool air). Make sure that the system is switched off before you perform this task, as there is a risk that you could be electrocuted if you clean the coils whilst it is on.